Ryan Fox Receives Hero's Welcome in New Zealand After Historic Open Championship Victory

Posted : 28 July 2026

New Zealand's Ryan Fox was welcomed home as a national hero on Tuesday, with thousands of fans gathering in Auckland to celebrate his historic victory at the 154th Open Championship and catch a glimpse of the iconic Claret Jug. The 39-year-old returned after a whirlwind week following his maiden major title at Royal Birkdale, where he secured a memorable one-shot victory.

Fox etched his name into New Zealand golfing history by becoming only the second Kiwi to win the Claret Jug after Bob Charles' triumph in 1963. His success also made him just the third New Zealander to claim a men's major championship, joining Michael Campbell, while Lydia Ko remains the country's most successful major winner in women's golf.

Addressing the large crowd in Auckland, Fox admitted the magnitude of his achievement was still sinking in. He said returning home to celebrate with family, friends and supporters was one of his first priorities after lifting golf's oldest major championship trophy, adding that the past few days had been unforgettable.

Fans packed the venue and spilled into nearby streets as Fox proudly displayed the Claret Jug. Known for his quick pace of play, he also drew laughter and applause by joking that he had become the "face of the pace of play movement" in professional golf.

During a media appearance, Fox was asked whether the Australian Open deserved recognition as golf's fifth men's major. While acknowledging the strength of Australia's famous sandbelt courses and the tournament's growing stature, he admitted that changing the long-standing tradition of the four men's majors would be difficult, although he noted the women's game already features five major championships.

Fox also revealed he received an emotional phone call from fellow New Zealand star Lydia Ko after his victory. Ko, who reportedly watched the closing holes in tears, congratulated her compatriot following his breakthrough success. Looking ahead to the mixed golf event planned for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Fox joked that he might try to persuade Ko to delay her planned retirement so they could compete together.

Although he acknowledged Ko's desire to step away from the sport and focus on family life, Fox praised her remarkable career and said she had earned the right to make whatever decision she felt was best. Still, he admitted it would be a special experience to represent New Zealand alongside her on the Olympic stage if circumstances allowed.

Ryan Fox Receives Hero's Welcome in New Zealand After Historic Open Championship Victory

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics